Kremlin Reports Ongoing Work on Russian Peace Memorandum Draft for Ukraine

The Kremlin has confirmed that serious work is ongoing on a proposed Russian peace memorandum for the war in Ukraine, although no official draft has yet been submitted to Kyiv. Russian President Vladimir Putin informed former U.S. President Donald Trump that Moscow and Kyiv would collaborate on this memorandum, which is intended to outline principles for a ceasefire and long-term peace agreement. The announcement has been met with skepticism from Ukrainian and European leaders, who accuse Russia of stalling and lacking genuine commitment to peace efforts, claims that Russia denies. The peace process is expected to continue based on agreements reached in Istanbul, including the recently completed prisoner exchange involving 1,000 detainees from each side. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that the draft document requires careful examination and preparation, and there is currently no clarity on the venue or timing for the next negotiation round. Additionally, Russia has indicated that new Ukrainian leadership might be necessary to sign any peace memorandum, further complicating the diplomatic process.